MORE than 280 performers had the chance to take to the stage at the Cliffs Pavilion.

Production company Take the Stage got in touch with performing groups around Basildon, Castle Point and Southend to give them the rare opportunity.

Groups included Junior Performers, Roydon Academy, Leonard Dance Academy, Morgan Academy of Performing Arts, Junior Masters, Bailar Dance, Fusion Performers Dance Company, Fusion Performers Musical Theatre Company and Razzamatazz Theatre School Rayleigh West.

Producer Amy Burrows said: “It was a celebration of the local groups. It went really well and we are already got bookings for groups who want to take part next year.”